Some psychologists/psychiatrists are just beginning to discuss the idea of rational suicide. That a person forced to live an intolerable life — with absolutely no chance of improvement — might rationally wish to end it. Journal articles are being written, and there’s even an academic book – Rational Suicide in the Elderly — Clinical, Ethical, and Sociocultural Aspects published in 2017.

However… this idea is far from being accepted. In fact, just voicing to your physician that you might consider suicide in the future — even if you state you are not considering it now — could be enough to find yourself involuntarily committed to a mental ward. At the very least, you are likely to be referred for psychiatric evaluation. And once you’ve been evaluated, that will become a permanent part of your medical record — which could color how hospitals/physicians see future actions of yours. Continue reading “Rational Suicide vs. Forced Intolerable Life” →